Understanding epilepsy caused by penetrating brain injuries
Official title: Epilepsy after penetrating brain injury
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-10809468 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how brain injuries from things like gunshot wounds can lead to epilepsy, especially focusing on harmful metals like copper and lead that might make things worse, and it's designed to help doctors understand who might be at risk and how to better treat them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | September 21, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $444,125 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS130385-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10809468 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have experienced penetrating brain injuries, particularly veterans and civilians with gunshot wounds.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with epilepsy not related to penetrating brain injuries or those without any history of brain trauma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how penetrating brain injuries, such as those from gunshot wounds, can lead to the development of epilepsy in survivors. It focuses on the role of toxic materials, particularly copper and lead, which may exacerbate brain damage and increase the risk of seizures. By studying a newly developed animal model that mimics these injuries, researchers aim to uncover the underlying mechanisms that contribute to post-traumatic epilepsy. The findings could help identify at-risk patients and inform future treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment options for patients who develop epilepsy after brain injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding the mechanisms of post-traumatic epilepsy can lead to significant advancements in treatment, making this approach both relevant and promising.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bertram, Edward H — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Bertram, Edward H
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.